The 1900s (1900 – 1909), often regarded as the birth of modern cinema, witnessed groundbreaking innovations and the emergence of narrative storytelling in film. Our list traverses through a diverse array of genres, from the fantastical and surreal to the early stirrings of social commentary and the exploration of science fiction. These films, from pioneers like Georges Méliès, Alice Guy-Blaché, and Edwin S. Porter, showcase a time when filmmakers were first discovering the potential of this new medium. As we journey through each entry, we celebrate not only the artistic achievements of these early films but also their enduring influence on the world of cinema. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films of the 1900s.
10. The Infernal Cauldron – Georges Méliès (1903)
“The Infernal Cauldron” is a silent film directed by Georges Méliès, celebrated for its pioneering and inventive use of special effects in the early days of cinema. The story unfolds around a sinister group of witches and demons who assemble around a massive, foreboding cauldron, engaging in the dark arts by conjuring various apparitions and performing magical rituals. The film not only showcases Méliès’ fascination with the supernatural but also showcases his ability to create mesmerizing scenes using the new technology of his time. Its narrative successfully offers a glimpse into a world of fantasy and illusion, filled with a sense of wonder and mystery.
This film is significant for its groundbreaking exploration of visual storytelling and its profound influence on the fantasy genre. Méliès, often lauded and recognized as a pioneer in the world of cinema, demonstrates his distinctive and imaginative vision in this short film. “The Infernal Cauldron” serves as a powerful testament to the imaginative possibilities of film, showcasing an era in its infancy. The movie’s timeless and captivating appeal lies in its ability to transport viewers to a mystical realm, effortlessly illustrating the power of cinema to create worlds beyond our imagination, where the fantastical becomes visually tangible.
9. The Great Train Robbery – Edwin S. Porter (1903)
“The Great Train Robbery,” directed by Edwin S. Porter, is a monumental landmark in the history of film, widely recognized for its narrative and technical innovations. It tells the story of a bold and reckless group of bandits who execute a daring train robbery, and then grapple with the consequences of their actions. The film’s pioneering use of location shooting, innovative cross-cutting, and dynamic camera movement was groundbreaking at the time and played a pivotal role in contributing to the evolution of cinema. The story unfolds in a series of dynamic scenes that masterfully capture the excitement and danger of the bandits’ escapade.
Porter’s film is universally acclaimed and recognized for its profound impact on the development of the Western genre in cinema. “The Great Train Robbery” not only tells an engaging story but also revolutionarily introduces techniques that would become fundamental staples in filmmaking. Its lasting influence is evident and far-reaching, as it expanded the possibilities of visual narrative, setting a precedent for future filmmakers. The film remains a vital and irreplaceable piece of cinematic history, illustrating the early potential of film as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression, ensuring its place as one of the best films of the 1900s.
8. The Man with the Rubber Head – Georges Méliès (1901)
“The Man with the Rubber Head,” an early silent film directed by Georges Méliès, brilliantly showcases his fascination with the surreal and the bizarre. The plot centers around a curious and inventive scientist who discovers a way to inflate and deflate his own head, exploring the consequences of this peculiar ability. Méliès himself stars in the film, bringing life to the role of the scientist who daringly experiments with the limits of his strange invention. The film employs innovative special effects, a hallmark of Méliès’ work, to create a whimsical yet unsettling atmosphere, blending humor with a sense of the uncanny.
Georges Méliès’ work in this film shows his pioneering role in the use of visual effects and his significant contribution to the art of cinema. The film is a powerful tribute to his boundless imagination and exceptional technical skill, as he creates a visually captivating experience that remains impressive even by today’s advanced standards. “The Man with the Rubber Head” stands out as an early and influential example of the fantasy genre in film, effectively capturing the audience’s attention with its bizarre and captivating premise. Méliès’ remarkable ability to transform the fantastical into a visual reality has significantly influenced the way future filmmakers explore the boundaries of the medium.
7. A Corner in Wheat – D.W. Griffith (1909)
“A Corner in Wheat,” a silent short film directed by D.W. Griffith, is renowned for its early exploration of social themes through cinema. The film focuses on the story of a wealthy businessman who unscrupulously manipulates the wheat market for profit, illustrating the dire consequences this has for farmers and the poor. The narrative powerfully contrasts the lives of the rich and the impoverished, expertly highlighting the disparity and injustice in society of the time. Griffith’s film is especially notable for its critical examination of greed and exploitation, depicted through compelling visual storytelling.
This film marks a significant moment in the history of cinema, offering one of the earliest examples of social commentary in the medium. D.W. Griffith not only entertains but also incisively reflects on and critiques societal issues of the time period, making this one of the best films of the 1900s. “A Corner in Wheat” serves as an early and impactful example of the potential of films to influence and comment on social matters, a practice that has become increasingly prevalent in the industry. The film’s enduring relevance stems from its ability to engage with important themes, effectively demonstrating the power of cinema as a tool for social reflection and critique.
6. The House of Ghosts – Segundo de Chomón (1907)
“The House of Ghosts,” directed by Segundo de Chomón, is an innovative and pioneering early example of a horror film, blending elements of the supernatural with innovative visual effects. In this silent movie, a traveler seeks shelter in a mysterious house, only to be confronted with the unsettling discovery that it is inhabited by a variety of ghosts and other eerie entities. As the narrative unfolds, the traveler encounters increasingly bizarre and startling phenomena, showcasing Chomón’s skill in creating a sense of dread and wonder. The visual effects, most notably the use of double exposure, are integral to the film’s haunting and atmospheric ambiance.
Segundo de Chomón’s significant contribution to early cinema is evident in “The House of Ghosts,” where he shows exceptional mastery of special effects to evoke a ghostly ambiance. This film stands as a precursor to the horror genre, demonstrating how cinema can evoke fear and suspense through imaginative visual storytelling. Chomón’s work represents a pivotal point in film history, illustrating the evolving techniques of filmmaking and their ability to captivate audiences with creative scenarios. “The House of Ghosts” remains an enduring and influential work, continuously inspiring future generations of filmmakers to explore the depths and possibilities of the horror genre.
5. The Merry Frolics of Satan – Georges Méliès (1906)
“The Merry Frolics of Satan,” directed by Georges Méliès, is a fantastical film that combines elements of comedy and magic within a surreal narrative. The plot revolves around a chemist who, after a series of innovative experiments, discovers a remarkable way to travel at an extraordinary speed, which propels him into an unexpected encounter with the character of Satan. Méliès’ signature blend of whimsy and spectacle is on full display, as the film takes the audience on an enchanting journey through a series of visually stunning scenes. The innovative use of special effects, especially including pyrotechnics and stop-motion, significantly adds to the film’s fantastical charm.
Georges Méliès, recognized as a master of early cinematic magic, showcases his artistic flair and technical ingenuity in “The Merry Frolics of Satan.” His films, universally known for their creativity and visual appeal, have played a crucial role in the development of the fantasy genre in cinema. This film, in particular, magnificently showcases his talent for combining storytelling with groundbreaking visual effects to create a thoroughly entertaining experience, making it one of the best films of the 1900s. Méliès’ work is widely celebrated for its pioneering spirit and its remarkable ability to transport audiences to magical, unexplored realms, enchanting viewers across generations.
4. Journey Through the Impossible – Georges Méliès (1904)
“Journey Through the Impossible,” another entry directed by Georges Méliès, is a groundbreaking science fiction film that enthralls viewers with a fantastical adventure. The plot follows a group of explorers who embark on an extraordinary journey, venturing through diverse and exotic environments, ranging from the mysterious depths of the ocean to the unexplored center of the earth, and even venturing to the fiery surface of the sun. Méliès’ flair for imaginative storytelling is evident as he masterfully combines elements of Jules Verne’s novels with his own unique and creative vision. The film is widely celebrated for its ambitious use of special effects, which create a vivid and engaging visual experience.
Georges Méliès’ work in this film clearly demonstrates his status as a true innovator in the realm of early cinema. “Journey Through the Impossible” demonstrates his remarkable ability to create stories that transcend the ordinary, inviting audiences into worlds of wonder and excitement. The film’s legacy lies in its unique and innovative approach to filmmaking and its significant influence on the science fiction genre. Méliès’ pioneering spirit in visual effects and narrative construction has left a profound and enduring impact on the way filmmakers approach the fantastic and the impossible, inspiring countless others in the field.
3. The Consequences of Feminism – Alice Guy-Blaché (1906)
“The Consequences of Feminism,” directed by Alice Guy-Blaché, is an insightful silent film that explores gender roles in a satirical and thought-provoking manner. The film presents a world where traditional gender roles are reversed: women act as the dominant figures in society, boldly engaging in traditionally male activities and behaviors, while men take on roles and tasks usually associated with women. This reversal serves as an effective vehicle for Guy-Blaché to comment on the absurdities of the societal norms of the time. The film’s comedic approach to a serious subject matter showcases Guy-Blaché’s skill in blending humor with social commentary.
Alice Guy-Blaché, as one of the first female filmmakers, uses “The Consequences of Feminism” to challenge and critique gender stereotypes of her time. Her innovative approach to storytelling and her willingness to address controversial topics makes her as a pioneering figure in cinema. The film not only provides entertainment but also invites reflection on the society of this time period, encouraging viewers to rethink traditional norms. Guy-Blaché’s influence extends beyond her role as a director as she paved the way for future generations to question societal issues through the use of cinema, making this one of the best films of the 1900s.
2. The Kingdom of the Fairies – Georges Méliès (1903)
“The Kingdom of the Fairies”, directed by Georges Méliès, is a visually mesmerizing film that effortlessly takes the audience into a magical realm. The story revolves around a brave prince who embarks on a daring quest to rescue a princess from a powerful and cunning formidable sorcerer. Along his journey, the prince encounters a bewildering variety of fantastical creatures and experiences both the wonders and dangers of the enchanting fairy kingdom. Méliès’ talent for creating stunningly captivating visual effects and elaborate set designs is prominently displayed, making the film a breathtaking visual spectacle.
Méliès’ work in “The Kingdom of the Fairies” showcases his unique ability to blend storytelling with pioneering cinematic techniques. This film stands as an important contribution to the fantasy genre, offering viewers an enchanting glimpse into a world of imagination and creativity. Méliès’ flair for combining drama, comedy, and visual artistry set a high standard for all future fantasy films. His influence on the development of the medium of cinema is undeniably clearly in this work, as it continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike with its innovative approach and enduring timeless charm.
1. A Trip to the Moon – Georges Méliès (1902)
“A Trip to the Moon,” yet another film directed by Georges Méliès, is a revolutionary and iconic work in the science fiction genre and a cornerstone of early cinema. The film narrates the story of a group of ambitious astronomers who embark on an audacious expedition to the moon. Upon their historic landing, they encounter a strange and alien world, teeming with bizarre creatures and presenting unexpected challenges. Méliès’ groundbreaking use of special effects, most notably including the iconic scene of a spacecraft landing in the moon’s eye, creates a fantastical and humorous narrative that remains relevant to this day.
Méliès’ “A Trip to the Moon” is not only a milestone in film history but also a pivotal work that expanded the possibilities of cinematic storytelling, embodying the spirit of innovation and creativity that defines cinema as an art form. The film’s highly imaginative approach to science fiction and its innovative visual effects have made it a classic, influencing countless filmmakers and captivating audiences for over a century. Méliès’ ability to merge whimsy with technical skill demonstrates the vast potential of cinema as a medium for bringing the fantastical to life. “A Trip to the Moon” remains a beloved and iconic piece of cinematic history, ensuring its place as one of the best films of the 1900s.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films of the 1900s (1900 – 1909):
- The Infernal Cauldron – Georges Méliès (1903)
- The Great Train Robbery – Edwin S. Porter (1903)
- The Man with the Rubber Head – Georges Méliès (1901)
- A Corner in Wheat – D.W. Griffith (1909)
- The House of Ghosts – Segundo de Chomón (1907)
- The Merry Frolics of Satan – Georges Méliès (1906)
- Journey Through the Impossible – Georges Méliès (1904)
- The Consequences of Feminism – Alice Guy-Blaché (1906)
- The Kingdom of the Fairies – Georges Méliès (1903)
- A Trip to the Moon – Georges Méliès (1902)
